Financial support advisor Review
at Marks & Spencer
Level 2 Apprenticeship
Finance
Yeovil
Review Submitted: May 2021
Overall Rating
3.3 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
1.5/5
-
Overview of Role
2/5
-
Skills Development
4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
1/5
My job involves taking calls from customers who are in financial difficulty. I try to put a plan in place to help then after completing a standard financial statement with them in order to understand their disposable income. I look at both long term and short term repayment solutions to help them.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
2/5
I enjoyed it as I am now more knowledgeable when talking to customers. I can explain and expand on why NOSIA letters are sent to customers and also be confident enough to explain that these are sent due to regulatory requirements. I also have a better understanding of the bankruptcy and iva process. Better banking knowledge all round.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
2/5
By studying the RBCB book this has enabled me to gain a rounded understanding of insolvency, bankruptcy and the different types of customer service all relevant to my job. It has also opened up my eyes to the different factors within banking and the regulations and laws that each firm has to abide by.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
1/5
I had many different talent coaches throughout the time of my apprenticeship. This did not offer stability and I found I was told different things by different coaches. The overall online platform was very good and well structured as I always knew what to expect and what was required from me.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I received a lot of support from my employer. They offered me dedicated time every week to be able to dedicate to my studies and this helped immensely as I was able to be very productive. My line manager was also very supportive and was always available if I was unsure of anything or had any questions.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
It varied from talent coach. It was frustrating towards my end point assessment as at one stage I was told everything was great then another time it was requested that I rewrite certain assignments. Overall though the different coaches I had were always quick to come back to my emails and were very structured in when they would visit/contact me.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
It has given me the confidence and knowledge to make me feel that I really know what I'm talking about to customers. It has helped me understand the banking system better and why certain laws and regulations are now in place. This helps me even thought I have worked in banking since 2004-I didn't know half of the things I now know!
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes there are-we have a dedicated MS teams page which has a running and a gamers club. It also has a pets section where we can share pictures. Due to permanently working from home now we also have a monthly zoom bingo which brings all my team together. There are also prizes to be won which is great!
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Marks & Spencer to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The bank is a great place to work. My line manager is very supportive and flexible. There are always opportunities for further training and also to be involved in community projects. It is also nice that I have peace of mind that I will be working from home until further notice.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Marks & Spencer?
I would say to be open and honest. To also provide good through examples at interview stage which demonstrates good customer service. Give examples using the STAR interview technique. I would also say to be very calm and not to be too nervous. Just to be yourself and as relaxed as possible!
